MANILA — The forthcoming state visit of Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to the Philippines is poised to significantly enhance the longstanding partnership between the two nations, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced today. The visit, scheduled for Sunday and Monday, is expected to serve as a catalyst for deepening bilateral ties, which have been maintained for over four decades.
According to Philippines News Agency, the visit by the Qatari Amir could escalate cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, food security, and tourism. The Philippines and Qatar have long enjoyed productive interactions, particularly in the realms of labor and development, with ongoing efforts to expand socio-economic and cultural collaboration.
Melicor highlighted that both Doha and Manila share common interests and positions on numerous global issues, supporting each other in international forums. “In enriching the enduring people-to-people ties between the Philippines and Qatar, there are initiatives to explore possible engagements in culture, education, and sports,” Melicor stated.
Further expanding the scope of their cooperation, the two countries are looking to include agriculture, climate change, and energy security. Melicor also noted that Qataris are being encouraged to invest in economic sectors in the Philippines that have recently been opened to foreign investors.
During his visit, Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani will engage in bilateral talks with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Cabinet secretaries to discuss political relations and ways to strengthen economic and socio-cultural connections. The visit will also feature the signing of several bilateral agreements in areas such as climate change, consular matters, and youth engagement.
Qatar is home to approximately 273,000 Filipino nationals and remains one of the top Middle Eastern destinations for land-based Filipino workers. The country’s strategic economic diversification, part of the National Vision 2030, has positioned it as one of the most influential in the region. “The Philippines also recognizes Qatar’s active efforts to preserve and strengthen a rules-based international order,” Melicor added.